Patrick Joyce, 46, was diagnosed with the progressive muscle-wasting disease in 2007 and told he would not live more than three years.

But eight years on he has now beat more than 700 rivals in a worldwide science competition with his revolutionary Eyedrivomatic gadget. Helped by two other inventors, the former plumber - who completely relies on his wheelchair - spent two years designing and building the device. It uses an eye-driven electronic velcro hand which allows tetraplegic people to steer, recline and change speed of their joystick chairs using just their eye movements.